World Ozone Day marks decade of Kigali Amendment

September 16 marks World Ozone Day, an annual observance commemorating the 1987 signing of the Montreal Protocol. The day highlights the global effort to protect the ozone layer, which shields Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation.

The 2026 theme, “Global action for a cooler planet,” celebrates the tenth anniversary of the Kigali Amendment. This amendment focuses on the phased reduction of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are potent greenhouse gases used in cooling systems. While HFCs do not directly deplete the ozone layer, their reduction is critical for mitigating climate change.

International cooperation has led to the phase-out of over 99% of ozone-depleting substances, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Experts suggest the ozone layer is on a path to recovery to pre-1980 levels. Ongoing challenges include managing nitrogen oxides from agriculture and ensuring the transition to sustainable, energy-efficient cooling technologies.